Monofocal vs EDOF vs Multifocal IOLs: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing an intraocular lens (IOL) is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning cataract surgery. Modern lens technology offers more options than ever, allowing patients to personalize their vision based on lifestyle, hobbies, and preferences.

Below is a clear, patient-friendly comparison to help you understand the differences.

What Is a Monofocal IOL?

A monofocal lens provides excellent clarity at a single focal point—most commonly distance.

Benefits:

• Crisp distance vision

• Excellent quality of vision

• Lowest risk of glare or halos

• Typically covered by insurance/NHS if you are willing to wait

Ideal for: Patients who don’t mind wearing reading glasses or prefer the most stable visual outcome.

What Is an Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOL?

EDOF lenses (such as the J and J Puresee or Alcon Vivity) offer a “stretch” of clear vision, giving patients a continuous range from distance to intermediate, with functional near vision.

Benefits:

• Very good distance and intermediate vision

• Fewer halos/glare than multifocal lenses

• Reduced dependence on glasses for everyday tasks

• Excellent for computer users, professionals, and active lifestyles

Ideal for: Patients who want excellent distance and intermediate vision and are comfortable using reading glasses occasionally for fine print, especially in dim lighting.

What Is a Multifocal IOL?

A multifocal lens provides distinct focal points for near, intermediate, and distance, aiming to minimize the need for glasses at all ranges. Options include the J and J Odyssey, Alcon Panoptix and Rayner Galaxy IOLs

Benefits:

• Independent from glasses for most tasks

• Excellent near vision

• Good for avid readers, arts & crafts enthusiasts, or anyone wanting maximum spectacle freedom

  
  

Considerations: Some patients notice halos around lights at night or mild contrast sensitivity reduction. The limits of physics mean there is some compromise in quality to gain more range. If you wish to drive regularly at nighttime multifocals are best avoided.

Ideal for: Highly motivated patients seeking the most spectacle-free lifestyle.

How to Choose the Right Lens: Key Factors

1. Lifestyle

• Work on a computer? → EDOF

• Read extensively without glasses? → Multifocal

• Drive frequently at night? → Monofocal or EDOF

2. Tolerance to Halos or Glare

• Very sensitive to visual disturbances? → Avoid multifocal lenses

3. Eye Health

Patients with significant retinal disease, severe dry eye, or corneal irregularities often do best with monofocal lenses.

4. Personalized Testing

Your surgeon will measure your eye, evaluate your retina and cornea, and consider your goals before making a recommendation.

Final Thoughts

No single IOL is “best” for everyone. The right choice depends on your goals, visual habits, and eye health. A detailed consultation with your surgeon ensures your vision is tailored specifically to your needs.

Most IOL companies have good comparison websites:

Mr Benson recommends either J and J vision simulator or Alcon IOL educator (contact him for password)